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Fresh Lime Peel Decoction (Citrus aurantifolia)

Fresh Lime Peel Decoction (Citrus aurantifolia)

The Citrus aurantifolia tree is thought to be native to the tropical regions of Asia, but is now widely grown in other tropical and subtropical areas of the world, including Brazil, Mexico and the West Indies. It has a shrub-like appearance with spiky branches, green leaves, and clusters of white flowers.

The lime fruits are commonly picked when green and unripe. In this form, they are higher in acid and sugar content than lemons.

It is believed that the Arabs brought the lime to the Mediterranean and Africa around 1000AD, and that the Crusaders introduced the fruit to the western Mediterranean around 1300AD.

Hundreds of years ago, sailors often developed scurvy, a severe vitamin C deficiency on long voyages. In the 19th century, James Lind found that drinking citrus juices could cure this disease. The lime and other citrus fruits were made available on every ship. The term ‘limey’ comes from this time.

In England, the linden tree (Tilia europaea) is commonly known as ‘lime tree,’ but is of no relation to Citrus aurantifolia.

We make a decoction by simmering fresh lime peel in boiling water. The mix is strained and added to our Slammer shower gel for its citrus aroma and refreshing properties.